First ‘round 3’ Wind Turbine Installed at Westermost Rough

The UK’s first commercial 6 megawatt (MW) wind turbine has been installed at the Westermost Rough wind farm, in a new landmark for renewable energy.

The next generation machine, designed by Siemens and erected by DONG Energy, is the first of 35 at the 210MW North Sea project.

It is hoped that the ‘round 3’ turbines, with their greater output, will help cut costs for the offshore wind sector.

Duncan Clark, Westermost Rough programme director for Dong, said, “This is a major landmark in the construction phase of this project and its achievement is a great credit to the DONG Energy team and our supply chain partners.

“This is the first time we have installed the Siemens 6MW turbine with a 154m diameter rotor on a commercial scale following smaller demonstration projects, and it represents a step change in our ability to provide more energy output from fewer turbines.”

Siemens Wind Power CEO Michael Hannibal added, “We are very proud to achieve this milestone on the way to enhancing efficiency and lowering the cost of offshore wind energy with our innovative direct drive technology.”

The Westermost Rough project is 50% owned by DONG Energy, whilst the Green Investment Bank and Marubeni revealed this week they are to refinance part of their 50% shareholding. It is due to be completed in 2015.

According to the PA Consulting Group’s Energy Investment Map, published in June, the UK is a top performer in attracting wind energy investment, ranking sixth out of 30 nations. The government has, however, been criticised for proposed policies causing uncertainty amongst renewable energy investors.